A source told the website the subpoena is related to investigations surrounding Aaron Hernandez, a college teammate and close friend of Pouncey. Hernandez is suspected of interstate gun trafficking, and agencies from at least three states — Massachusetts, New York and Florida — are looking into the case. The subpoena had to be issued in Massachusetts, which would explain the timing by investigators.

The subpoena does not mean Pouncey has been or will be charged with a crime. It means law enforcement regards him as a material witness who could be used in the case against Hernandez, the former Patriots tight end who is currently awaiting trial for first-degree murder in the June 17 death of Odin Lloyd. A new report Monday by SI.com says that the police are interested in transactions between Hernandez and Pouncey and he may be forced to hand over emails and bank records.

In addition to the murder charge, Hernandez also was indicted on five weapons-related charges. At least three different types of ammunition — .22 and .45-caliber bullets, as well as 7.62-mm rounds — were seized at Hernandez’s home in North Attleboro, Mass., and his “flop” house in Franklin, Mass.

A source told SI.com that even before Hernandez was investigated for the death of Lloyd, there were signs emerging that he was involved in a multi-state gun running operation.

Aaron Hernandez (center) celebrates a touchdown with Mike Pouncey (left) and Tim Tebow during the Sugar Bowl in 2010.

Dolphins officials refused comment and a Patriots spokesman said Patriots owner Robert Kraft was “not aware” that the state police would be issuing a subpoena to Pouncey.

Pouncey and his twin brother, Maurkice, were photographed in mid-July at a nightclub wearing hats that said “Free Hernandez.”